Renault Wind Roadster Revealed

Video: Flip-top Renault promises practicality and fun

By Chris-R / Tuesday, 2 February 2010 / Loading comments

This looks like fun, albeit in a slightly girly way. (Can we say that?) It's the new Wind coupe-roadster from Renault, and it's got a flip-top lid that pivots in 12secs when the sun is shining and you want to blow away the cobwebs.

Due to be unveiled in the metal at the Geneva Motor Show on 2 March the new car is a two-seater of 3.83 metres in length and is, say Renault, "aimed at motorists who lust after a car that is not only distinctive and compact, but also convertible and practical enough for everyday use".

They also say the Wind is the only car of its class to provide just as much luggage space (270dm3 VDA) whatever the position of the roof.

There's nothing else 'official' as yet, but we do know the Wind is based on Twingo underpinnings and will be offered with the 133bhp 1.6 from its sibling at launch. It's likely to cost from around 17k, which would make it a rival for bottom-end versions of the new Mini Roadster due on sale next year - and also predicted to start around the 17k mark.

Of course it might turn out to drive like cold porridge, (or make that a soggy croissant), but as this is Renault and not Citroen we wouldn't bet on it. And a properly-sorted Renaultsport version could be a treat too - or maybe I'm getting too in-touch with my feminine side...